IAF – International Accreditation Forum

On this page the American Board of Accredited Certifications explains the reasons why it does not recognize the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) as an acceptable accreditation organization.

IAF Monopoly vs Fair Competition

On its website the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) claims here its primary function is to “develop a single worldwide program” of conformity assessment which reduces risk for business and its customers by assuring them that accredited certificates may be relied upon. ABAC see’s promoting and/or supporting a “single worldwide program” is an IAF attempt to monopolize the marketplace by discrediting competitive accreditation bodies. In short, a “single worldwide program” of accreditation that is supposedly overseen by a sole organization (IAF) and/or its subsidiaries is not only mathematically impossible to implement, but counterproductive. Competition is essential in accreditation to constantly improve the process, maintain integrity, and encourage affordable pricing.

IAF and ANAB® Conflict of Interest

The IAF claims to be an impartial organization that oversees ANAB®. Yet, Randy Dougherty, the Chairman and President of the International Accreditation Forum, is also Vice President at ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Isn’t this a serious conflict of interest? The American Board of Accredited Certifications questioned Mr. Dougherty how he can sit as the Chairman and President of the International Accreditation Forum, while simultaneously holding the position of Vice President of the ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB) which the IAF supposedly oversees? We have yet to receive a clear answer.

IAF Does Not Conform To ISO/ILG American Standards

IAF is located in Europe which disqualifies the organization because it does not conform to ILG American standards (accreditation bodies need to conform to ISO/ILG 9009). Therefore, IAF is using inappropriate international standards when accrediting their certification bodies resulting in Invalid certificates issued by registrars accredited by Bogus Accreditation Bodies.

IAF Has Ties With the Infamous MLA Group

IAF was found to be associated with the notorious MLA Group (Multilateral Mutual Recognition Arrangement) which was classified as being anti-competitive by AMSN and its international chapters. Further, the Industrial Leaders Group showed the arrangement between IAF and MLA was an attempt by the organizations to push their “certified once-accepted everywhere” program in effort to force the marketplace to accept IAF as the “official” international accreditation body. To be more specific, IAF MLA signatories are obligated to recognize certificates accredited by other IAF MLA signatories as equivalent but discredit certificates from organizations that are not members of IAF.

IAF Admits To Questionable Practices

In a recent letter forwarded to ABAC by an associated, the IAF President Randy Dougherty admits as an IAF MLA signatory, they recognize certifications accredited by other IAF MLA signatory accreditation bodies as being equivalent to an ANAB accredited certification. Yet, they do not recognize the certifications accredited by organizations that are not members of IAF. Further, in Mr. Dougherty’s own words, the IAF does not have anything to do with non-accredited certifications. Again, this shows further monopolizing efforts by IAF which is the primary reason why ABAC does not recognize certificates accredited by IAF. The American Board of Accredited Certifications is committed to overseeing accreditation and certification bodies known for integrity, competency, and encouraging fair competition in the quality community. Obviously we have found IAF to lack in these standards.

About ABAC

ABAC oversees accreditation and certification bodies assuring integrity, competency, and fair competition in the quality community. We accredit certifications based on the fundamental principles of accountability, ethical conduct, and commitment to quality.